Mediclinic is committed to innovation supporting excellence in patient care, evidenced by our recent investments in da Vinci robotic systems across South Africa.
The da Vinci system in one of our facilities which has been operational for over ten years and performed over 1 000 procedures was upgraded in 2024, and three additional systems were installed in May 2025. Several surgeons at each facility are trained and accredited to operate using these state-of-the-art da Vinci systems. To enable ongoing and expanded access to this precise form of surgery that enhances the already expert capabilities of a surgeon’s eyes and hands, more surgeons are being trained and accredited on the da Vinci robotic system.
What is Da Vinci Robotic Surgery?
Da Vinci robotic surgery is an innovative and minimally invasive surgery that uses advanced robotic technology to assist the surgeon with enhanced precision, flexibility and control. Despite the term "robotic," it’s important to understand that the surgeon is always in control — the robot cannot act on its own.
How Does the Da Vinci System Work?
The Da Vinci system consists of four integrated components:
- Surgeon console where the surgeon sits and controls the instruments
- Patient cart which holds the robotic arms attached to surgical instruments
- Vision cart with high-definition 3D camera that connects all system components, supports the camera and vision system, and facilitates real-time communication between the surgeon console and patient cart
- Surgical instruments that mimic the movement of the human wrist with “seven degrees of freedom” – the range and complexity of motion that surpasses the dexterity of the human hand
The system translates the surgeon’s hand movements via the console into smaller, more precise movements inside your body, allowing for more accurate surgery and smaller incisions than traditional open or laparoscopic surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
Compared to traditional open or laparoscopic surgery, da Vinci-assisted surgery offers our patients the following potential benefits:
- Enhanced precision, especially in delicate or complex surgeries
- Smaller incisions and less scarring
- Reduced post-operative pain and discomfort
- Less blood loss
- Lower risk of infection
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery and return to normal activities
What Procedures Can Be Done with the Da Vinci System in Mediclinic?
Da Vinci surgery can be used for many different types of surgical procedures. Procedures currently being performed in Mediclinic facilities include:
- Selected Urological surgery (e.g. prostatectomy, nephrectomy)
- Selected Colorectal surgery (e.g. hemi-colectomy for cancer, surgery for prolapse)
- Selected Gynaecological surgery (e.g. hysterectomy for cancer, surgery for prolapse)
Is Da Vinci Surgery Right for Me?
It is important to remember that not all patients are candidates for robotic-assisted surgery. Suitability depends on:
- Your overall health
- The type and complexity of the surgery
- Your surgeon’s experience and training
Discuss with your surgeon to determine the best and safest approach for you.
Which Mediclinic facilities offer Da Vinci Surgery?
(Disclaimer: Not all surgeries are supported by medical aid. Please discuss this with your doctor for further information.)
More about Da Vinci Surgery?
- The genius of robotic surgery - The da Vinci Robotic Surgical System
- Why robotic surgery is a game-changer in colorectal cancer treatment
- Mediclinic Durbanville surgeon among first to use Da Vinci robot for colorectal surgery
- Mediclinic Durbanville Pioneers World's First Robotic Dual Surgery for Rectal and Prostate Cancer